Hotels in Rome: 4 of the Best Places to Stay in the Eternal City

Looking for Hotels in Rome?

Rome, once the ancient capital of the known world, is a fascinating place. From the ancient foundations of the all-conquering Roman Empire to the pristine Italian fashion houses that line the streets to its staggering architecture, Rome is a wonderful mix of old and new, packing in over 3,000 years of history for you to explore. With so much to see and do it’s essential to base yourself somewhere welcoming and exclusive, where you’ll be treated like royalty while you rest and recharge your batteries. And we understand the importance of those special, personal touches so we’ve hand-picked our four favorite hotels in Rome especially for you; we know you’ll have an unforgettable stay.

1. The Fortyseven Hotel, in the heart of ancient Rome

Few areas of Rome are more evocative of its earliest founding years than the fabulous Roman Forum, together with the remains of the Colosseum and the Circus Maximus chariot race track. And while it is truly wonderful to explore these sites during the day, imagine waking up in the midst of the ancient city, with antiquated temples and the Mouth of Truth on your doorstep, the old racecourse behind you and beautiful panoramic views across the city all around. With a stay at the boutique Fortyseven Hotel, you don’t have to imagine anymore.

Nestled between the historic Roman Forum, Circus Maximus and the fast flowing Tiber River, the Fortyseven is an elegant haven of luxury in the center of Rome. Each floor is styled in tribute to one of Italy’s great contemporary artists with Modigliani, Mastroianni and Greco just three of the masters acknowledged. And the artistic theme continues to the rooms, where chic Art Deco detailing and contemporary art make each one unique. Add in the Fortyseven’s relaxing wellness center and its romantic rooftop terrace bar and restaurant that serves Italian aperitivi and delicious Mediterranean cuisine and is set against the unrivaled backdrop of the Roman skyline, and you have everything that will keep you coming back again and again and again. Just what you want from the best hotels in Rome.

Set in Rome’s designer district, you’re surrounded by the elegance of the top Italian fashion houses, intermingled with iconic cultural gems. From your front door, it’s just a few short steps to the Piazza di Spagna and the monumental, gleaming white Spanish Steps; climbing the 135 marble stairs offers fabulous views over the city. And a short stroll along the elevated terrace at the top, leads to the tranquil Borghese Gardens where shaded paths provide a refreshing break from the sultry Roman summer. Alternately, head north for the fountains in the immense Piazza del Popolo, or turn south for the breathtaking Baroque beauty of the Trevi Fountain, making sure to throw in your coins and make a wish so you’re guaranteed to return!

And after a long day of sightseeing, there is nothing better than the pleasure of returning to your peaceful, deluxe boutique hotel to relax and re-energize. The 18th century palazzo, once home to writer Hans Christian Anderson, combines original ceiling frescoes with classic Italian design and modern amenities, so from the very minute you check in, you’ll feel at at home. Admire the glorious Roman sunsets with an aperitivo at the hotel’s rooftop bar. Or if you’re celebrating a special family occasion, why not book the luxurious View Penthouse for an exclusive vacation in the Eternal City; there are few hotels in Rome that can beat it.

3. Grand Hotel de la Minerve

A sort distance across town, overlooking the dramatic ancient dome of the Pantheon, sits the aristocratic Grand Hotel de la Minerve. Built in 1620 for the patrician Fonseca family, the hotel is now one of the most luxurious properties in Rome. And with Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain and the 2,000-year-old Pantheon all within a stone’s throw, it’s a perfect place to base yourselves.

As soon as you leave the hotel, you’re greeted with one of Rome’s best-loved landmarks on the doorstep: the Elephant and Obelsik sculpture. Designed by the legendary Italian artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1667, it is a stunning masterpiece that incorporates an ancient Egyptian needle — it’s the perfect taste of what’s to come as you stroll around the city. And fortunately, less than half-a-mile away is Bernini’s most famous work, his dramatic Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (Four Rivers Fountain) that forms the striking centerpiece of nearby Piazza Navona. What Shakespeare is to drama, Bernini is to sculpture, so seeking out his works is a fabulous way to discover Rome.

By the end of a fabulous day exploring Rome’s cultural heart, the Grand Hotel is the ideal antidote to the city’s hustle and bustle. Relax with afternoon tea in the courtyard, with its stained-glass roof. Sip an elegant aperitivo in Le Cupole, the chic hotel bar. Lie back in a marble whirlpool bath. Or dine like lords and ladies on the outdoor terrace of La Cesta Restaurant, pairing the creative Mediterranean cuisine with their extensive wine list. The hotel’s “pièce de résistance” is Rome’s glorious skyline, pierced by the classic dome of St Peter’s Basilica in the distance. What more could you want from one of the best hotels in Rome?

4. Inn at the Roman Forum

And finally, tucked away down a quiet cobblestone alley, just steps from the ancient Forum, sits our fourth and final suggestion and one of our favorite hotels in Rome. With just 14 plush rooms and sumptuous suites, decorated in lavish silks, period furniture and the best that modern technology has to offer, The Inn at the Roman Forum is luxurious spot to rest your head.

It boasts unforgettable views over the Forum, Palatine and Capitoline Hills, once the seat of Roman power. And the hotel is only a few minutes walk to Piazza Venezia, hub of modern Rome and home to the imposing Altare della Patria (Altar of the Fatherland), unified Italy’s most grandiose monument to its first King, Vittorio Emanuele II. Rising high above the ancient ruins of the Forum, the gleaming white monument, nicknamed the “Wedding Cake” or the “Typewriter,” stands proudly over Rome. It’s a tribute that can be seen from miles around, thanks to the two triumphant bronze statues of galloping chariots driven by the goddess, Victoria, that top off the altar.

But you don’t even have to leave your wonderful hotel to delve into the history of this fascinating city since The Inn at the Roman Forum is the only luxury residence in Rome to house ancient Roman ruins within its walls. Beneath the chic boutique hotel, down a small passageway, lies a Cryptoporticus (stone gallery), built 2,000 years ago and adorned with exquisite figures and scenes. And once you’ve finished admiring the incomparable heritage beneath your feet, why not climb to the delightful rooftop bar to finish off your memorable day with an refreshing glass of Prosecco as the sun sets behind the Forum?

Indulge yourselves at our favorite hotels in Rome

Every traveler knows that it’s the personal touches that make a trip memorable. Enjoy a handpicked wine with your meal as you watch the sun set over the city. Take a private tour of the ancient Roman Forum while your exclusive, local guide expertly brings the ruins to life with stories of power, intrigue and love. Or relax on pristine linens in a chic chamber, perfectly styled for your comfort and well-being. The Eternal City truly has it all — our friendly travel experts are on standby to handpick your ideal room in one of our favorite hotels in Rome so get ready for an unforgettable Roman holiday!